To demonstrate the velocity of a ball that is accelerating vs. a ball with constant velocity, use the two yellow tracks with two pool balls. Release the two balls simultaneously at the top of the track. The ball with constant velocity will initially have the greater speed but the accelerating ball will soon pass it. When do the balls have the same velocity?
Location: Track – C3-01-3
Balls - C3-01-3
Prep time: none
Use the graph with blue water in it as an accelerometer. As you accelerate or decelerate the water will shift indicating a change. The metal peg on the bottom unscrews allowing you to place the accelerometer on a track cart to demonstrate straight-line motion and acceleration. This demo can also be used in circular motion demonstrating centripetal force.
Location: Accelerometer- ME3C-03-3
Prep time: 1 minute
Hold a dollar between a student’s fingers so that their fingers are at the middle of the dollar. Release the dollar and have the student try to catch the dollar. The dollar is between the student’s fingers for about 0.1 seconds. This is faster than most people’s reaction time so it will be difficult to catch.
Location: Dollar - you provide
Prep Time: none
